The Hurtigruten - The North Cape & Midnight Sun
Norwegian Coastal Steamer Reaches Northernmost Point of Norway.
Oct 17, 2008
The North Cape is the northernmost point of Norway, and of mainland Europe. From here one can look across the sea to the north into nothingness, and it feels like the end of the world. The Norwegian Coastal ships call at Honningsvag, the nearest port, on the Northern Voyage, six days after leaving Bergen, and the trip to the Cape is one of the most popular tours. One may also view the Midnight Sun that night.
The Ship’s Route
The ship docks at Hammerfest very early in the morning, so those passengers who are up at the crack of dawn can enjoy the view as it departs at 6.45 am. For everyone else the day begins with a trip across open sea – the north coast of Norway. The ship is now well into the Arctic regions at around 70 degrees north. Yet in the summer the weather can be surprisingly pleasant, and some people sit in the sun on deck, or relax in the outdoor jacuzzis which are available on some ships. The braver souls even swim in the outdoor swimming pool! There is a short stop at Havoysund, then it’s on to Honningsvag, where the ship arrives around mid-morning. Honningsvag is a pretty town with brightly coloured wooden buildings; these are typical of northern Norway, and the houses look very picturesque against the treeless landscape…this area is well north of the tree line. There is also a North Cape Museum here.
The Trip to the North Cape
It is possible to book many shore trips when on the Hurtigruten, and the drive to the North Cape is one of the most popular ones. It is really quite spectacular. The coach drives through deserted landscapes, with snow even in mid-summer. It is possible to see reindeer, and even Sami tribesmen, if one is lucky. Finally the coach reaches the North Cape.
The North Cape – Northernmost Point of Europe
The actual cape is bleak but spectacular spot, with dramatic cliffs looking out north over endless sea. There is a globe and a plaque, telling people that they are at 71 degrees 10 minutes 21 seconds north. There is also a small shop and café, but for such a well known landmark the North Cape is satisfying free of both people and tourist paraphernalia. After a few hours the coach returns to the ship for the mid-afternoon departure.
The Midnight Sun - the Sun Never Sets!
The rest of the day is spent heading east across Norway’s northern coast, and stopping at some small isolated towns. That evening the ship passes the most northerly lighthouse in mainland Europe. And that night is a good time to possibly see and the Midnight Sun, if one is taking the voyage in the summer, since there is a wide skyline with no obstacles. The sun drops just to the horizon, then starts to rise again – a quite unforgettable experience.
This day is perhaps one of the most scenic and fantastic of any of the experiences of the Hurtigruten trip.
Other Articles in the ‘Hurtigruten’ Series
Kirkenes and the Russian Border
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